5 Easy Ways to Modernize Your Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans, while purposeful, are not always stylish. Perhaps your ceiling fan came with your home or you purchased the fan a long time ago and your décor has changed significantly since then. Whatever the case may be, you’re no longer happy with the way the fan looks. Before you consider trading in your old spinner for a newer model, here are some affordable and easy tips to modernize your ceiling fan.

1. New Blades

Ceiling fan blades can fade and warp over time, causing the fan to look shabby. Replace the outdated fan blades with a new blade set, preferably from the same manufacturer as the fan to guarantee a good fit. Skip the standard issue reversible blades and opt for blades with hand-carved and textured details. Choose natural finishes like dark mahogany, dark walnut and Spanish Oak that show off the grain. Fan blades range in price from $50 - $200 depending on the manufacturer so there are plenty of options for any budget.

2. Paint Job

Just as the blades lose their original luster so does the motor housing and hardware. You can modernize your ceiling fan by quickly restoring the fixture’s patina with an inexpensive paint job. For the fan hardware, choose a paint color that complements the hardware such as the door hinges, door knobs and appliances. For the fan blades, choose a paint color that complements the furniture, doors and woodwork. See our previous article on how to paint a ceiling fan, which we completed for about $15, for materials and instructions.

3. Add Lighting

Add a ceiling fan light kit to your old fan for a quick and functional renovation. Light kits are available as single globe fixtures and multi-light fixtures. Choose from clear, frosted or opal glass shades. Be sure to choose a light kit from the same manufacturer as your fan to guarantee a good fit. A simple globe fixture starts around $45.

4. Add New Bulbs

If your ceiling fan already has a light kit, upgrade the bulbs to LED bulbs. LED bulbs consume less energy than incandescent, halogen or fluorescent bulbs, and they last up to 50 times longer. Today’s LED bulbs emit cool and warm lighting for any occasion. Westinghouse offers LED bulbs starting at $23.

5. Add Control

If you have an older ceiling fan, chances are it came with a pull chain control. Modernize your ceiling fan by adding a fan control such as a wall control or handheld remote control. Many manufacturers offer a universal fan control that is compatible with their fans. Handheld and wall controls start at $26.

If all else fails, you can always trade in your old fan for one of these modern options.

Minka Aire Wave

The Minka Aire Wave features a contemporary fluid design with distressed koa wood blades. The fan includes a three-speed handheld remote control with full-range light dimming. This ceiling fan is ideal for bedrooms, living rooms and offices.

Ellington Utility

The Ellington Utility features a modern industrial design with a chrome finish and three titanium blades. The fan includes a five-speed wall control. This ceiling fan is ideal for master bedrooms, great rooms and other large spaces.

Fanimation Embrace

The Fanimation Embrace offers a modern take on the hugger design with a matte white finish. The fan includes a three-speed with full-range light dimming and reverse function. This fan is ideal for rooms where the ceiling height is less than 8 feet.